Grand Isle, La., Braces for Major Storm

September 2, 2011 by Justin Leighty
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A view of Grand Isle, La., which protrudes into the Gulf of Mexico (at right), is prone to major storms.

A state of emergency has been declared in Grand Isle, La., as of noon today (Sept. 2), and a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for individuals in camper trailers and recreational vehicles.

A voluntary evacuation has been issued for other residents in light of possible flooding on Louisiana 1, and a shelter has been established at the Larose Civic Center, The Times Picayune reported.

Mayor David Carmardelle made the announcement after meeting with city officials all morning and watching weather reports. The town, and most of the Louisiana coast, is preparing for tropical depression 13 which is looming in the Gulf of Mexico and expected to drive heavy rains into the state this weekend.

Information on when residents should return to Grand Isle will be released as conditions are evaluated.

Grand Isle has been repeatedly pummelled by hurricanes through its history. On average, Grand Isle has been affected by tropical storms or hurricanes every 2.68 years (since 1877), with hurricane direct hits on average every 7.88 years.